Product Series: BB & CC Creams

Aaahhh! The good old BB Cream craze that has literally swept the ‘western’ cosmetics industry by storm. As we move down the double letters of the alphabet, most are still confused about what BB, CC and (believe it or not) DD creams are all about. In today’s Product Series, we’ll look at the concept behind these creams so you can decide if it’s something you need to incorporate into your beauty/makeup routine.

WHAT ARE BB/CC CREAMS

BB Creams – short for Beauty Balm or Blemish Balm and CC Creams – the Color Correcting versions, were initially developed in Germany. But they found fame in Asian markets, particularly Korea as a multi purpose tinted cream which doubles up as skincare + makeup base all in the one product.

Its main purpose is to correct skin problems such as blemishes, pores, pigmentation, color imbalances with regular use, as well as acting as a primer base for makeup. Used either by itself or under other products, the true concept of BB and CC Creams are slightly different on our shelves than the Asian counterparts. This is where a lot of confusion happened initially, because the formulas available to us were no different than basic tinted moisturisers. If you find the right BB or CC cream for your skin needs however, these creams are actually convenient, easy to use, and provide many great skin benefits.

TYPES OF BB and CC CREAMS

Before the BB Creams launched in our stores, I had heard of a select few Asian brands which had been very popular in Asia for years. Having done plenty of research on these creams, it was easier for me to tell the difference when “our version” of creams hit the shelves.

So, in order to stay true to the original formula, first and foremost I will be recommending the Asian BB and CC Cream brands that are renowned for…well…what they’re supposed to do.

My absolute favorite CC Cream deserves a mention in its own right. It’s a Korean brand named Rachel K. It contains all the benefits of BB Cream coupled with the Color Correcting properties. I’ve been using this CC Cream for quite some time now and it really is ‘magical’ to say the least.

Rachel K CC Cream in Neutral

Rachel K CC Cream is a Color Correcting Blemish Balm. It has a very interesting texture. It applies like a lightweight cream but soaks into the skin right away, leaving a smooth, even and silky surface. This cream is also 10 in 1: EGF (epidermal growth factor) which generates cell production; SPF 35; Moisturizing; Whitening; Nourishing; Anti-Wrinkle; Collagen Enriched; Non-Comodogenic; Smudge Proof and Waterproof.

Although the packaging has changed since my last purchase, the formula is exactly the same. It comes in one standard color. Some of you may look at my swatch and think it’s restrictive for different skin tones but it actually adjusts to each individual’s skin color. The trick is in letting the cream settle into the skin for about 5 minutes before applying anything else on top. I typically use this cream as a primer base before my foundation but it’s also great for evening out skin tone, blurring out pores and fine lines as well as providing SPF 35 if you want to wear it on its own.

Another original BB/CC Cream option you can confidently try is by Missha. Their best selling M Perfect Cover BB Cream comes in various shades so it can actually replace your foundation if you’re after heavier coverage. All the stores I’ve linked these products below offer international shipping – just click the pictures to be taken to the sites:

So…what’s available in our stores that could come close to the above products? In all honesty, I’m yet to find a drugstore or a makeup brand that has the perfect BB/CC Cream formula. If you’d like to try such creams, try to go for one by a skincare company, as they understand the concept better. Dr Brandt has a variety of BB and CC Creams which receive great reviews from users:

If you don’t have specific skin issues, or your current routine of skincare, color correcting or primer is working just fine, BB or CC Creams are not a necessity. That said, on days where I want a quick boost and a smooth surface to work with, without going into the additional steps of priming, concealing and the likes, I do enjoy the convenience of my Rachel K CC Cream.

BB and CC CREAM TIPS

* Being a product which has skincare attributes, the long term effects may take some time to see. For these type of benefits, regular use is key, so you may want to completely replace your daily primer or SPF with your BB/CC Cream.

What do you guys think of BB or CC Creams? Do you use it and which one is your favorite? xx